When Matt Kenseth heard the news Carl Edwards was suddenly stepping away from in the prime of his career, Kenseth had the same reaction as many -- he was surprised by the news regarding his Joe Gibbs Racing teammate. But the more Kenseth thought about, Edwards’ decision wasn’t completely unexpected.
Why Carl Edwards retired is a mystery to Matt Kenseth
Edwards’ surprise decision to leave NASCAR has left his former teammate baffled.
Matthew O’Haren-USA TODAY Sports
“I was very, very surprised,” Kenseth said Tuesday on the first day of NASCAR’s preseason media tour in downtown Charlotte, N.C. “But the more I think about it, I wasn’t shocked, but I definitely didn’t see it coming.
Edwards informed team owner Joe Gibbs of his choice just before Christmas, but only a few people within JGR were privy to the news as the organization worked to secure a replacement and ensure Edwards’ sponsors remained in place. JGR promoted Xfinity Series champion Daniel Suarez drive its No. 19 car.
JGR’ Cup drivers, Kenseth, Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin and their respective crew chiefs, were told on Jan. 8, two days before Edwards’ retirement became public. Kenseth said he knew something significant was going on when Gibbs called a Sunday night conference call, the first time that happened in Kenseth’s five years with the team.
The 37-year-old Edwards says he gave up a ride with one of NASCAR’s best teams because he wanted to spend more time with his family, pursue interests outside of racing, and was content with all he had accomplished.
Kenseth and Edwards haven’t always had the closest relationship, with the two having contentious moments when the two were teammates at Roush Fenway Racing from 2004-2012. Edwards once accosted Kenseth following a race, even throwing a fake punch at Kenseth. But since Edwards joined JGR in 2015, he and Kenseth have worked harmoniously and the two have spoken privately regarding Edwards’ decision.
”I called him and asked him (why) straight out,” Kenseth said. “When I hung up, it was probably less clear than before I picked (the phone) up. I tried to listen to what he was saying, I tried to listen to what he wasn’t saying and I didn’t really come up with anything.”
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